POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION: UNDERSTANDING TRIGGERS, DIAGNOSIS, AND EFFECTIVE TREATMENTS

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a prevalent and serious mental health condition affecting approximately 17% of women after childbirth, with prevalence varying markedly between countries. Many cases remain undetected, and the condition’s multifactorial etiology — encompassing hormonal, psychological, and social determinants — complicates early diagnosis and intervention. The COVID-19 pandemic has further increased PPD prevalence worldwide, highlighting the urgency of effective screening and treatment strategies. Recent advances, including the development of novel neuroactive steroids such as brexanolone and zuranolone, offer new therapeutic perspectives. Results: PPD is a major depressive disorder that typically manifests shortly after childbirth. Contributing factors include rapid hormonal and neuroendocrine changes, pre-existing mental illness, psychosocial stressors, and adverse life events. Non-specific symptoms may delay diagnosis, increasing the risk of long-term complications for both mother and child. The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with a marked increase in PPD prevalence, linked to social isolation, reduced healthcare access, and heightened anxiety. Consequences for the child include emotional and behavioral disturbances, impaired cognitive development, and reduced IQ. Conclusions: Current pharmacological treatments, such as sertraline, and non-pharmacological approaches, including interpersonal psychotherapy, are effective and lead to significant clinical improvement. Novel neuroactive steroids, such as brexanolone and zuranolone, show promise for treatment-resistant cases and warrant further investigation. Early intervention reduces maternal suicide risk, prevents child abuse, mitigates developmental pathologies, strengthens partner relationships, and improves maternal psychosomatic well-being.